Field Hockey demolishes Kennedy on Senior Night

Blair varsity field hockey (4-5) dominated the Kennedy Cavaliers (2-8) Monday night, winning 7-0. The game was a perfect way to close the season as the Blazers advance towards playoffs. Following the game, the Blazers congratulated their seniors amid their final game at Blair's stadium.

The Blazers started the half with intensity, while senior attack Leigh Cook led the offense with a hat trick and two assists by Anna Hukill within the first six minutes of the half, setting the score 3-0. "This was my first time scoring a goal this season," said Cook, "and I definitely didn't expect to score 3." The Blazers offense continued their scoring streak and displayed strong passing skills and was able to navigate easily around Cavalier defenders. Blair continued to bombard Kennedy offensively, as Cook crossed the ball to junior attack Louisa McGarvey who in turn swept the ball into the goal. The half concluded with a few missed scoring opportunities on penalty corners and shots on goal by the Blazers, but overall was strong.

In the second half, The Cavalier defense began to toughen, making it more difficult for the Blazers to score, as they had multiple shots on goal but failed to capitalize on any. Kennedy continued to build up momentum, and earned an essential breakaway that allowed the Cavaliers to near the opposing goal for the first time. Blair senior defenders Dana Hunter, Elia Tzoukermann and Sammy Wichansky worked together as an impenetrable barrier to Kennedy offense, allowing no shots on goal. Captain and junior midfielder Anna Hukill drove the ball back into Blair possession, thus taking the game back within the Blazer's control.

Midway through the half, junior Maddie Boyer struggled outside the goal with Cavalier defense, but was eventually able to maneuver the ball off the goalkeeper's pads and into the goal setting the score 5-0. Shortly after, Boyer swept the ball into the goal. The Blazes maintained an offensive presence and ended the game with a goal by McGarvey, setting the final score to 7-0.

The Blazers played magnificently; a perfect last home game for the seniors. "I couldn't have asked for a better last game," Cook said. Throughout the game, the team exhibited quick passing, good communication and strong defense. "I was very pleased with our passing," Head coach Candace Thurman said, "I was especially impressed by Cook's hat trick and how well all the seniors played." However, the season is not yet over with playoffs only days away. "We are looking forward to playoffs," Hukill said, "We are going to go out there intensely and win."

Editor's Note: Anna Hukill and Maddie Boyer are on business staff for Silver Chips Print. Also, Louisa McGarvey is a staff writer for Silver Chips Print